If your water is rust colored or not heating quickly, it may be because sediment in collecting in your water heater. Here's how to drain the tank.

Open a hot water faucet closest to the water heater, preferably on an upper floor, and the water heater drain valve. Let the tank drain until sediment clogs the valve and reduces the flow.

It can also be dangerous to your health, because stagnant water can develop harmful bacteria and foul odors. If your tank will be sitting for more than two weeks, it’s best to completely drain ...